Diocesan Family Commission Charts Course for Strengthening Family Values: Meeting Highlights and Future Plans

Diocesan Family Commission Charts Course for Strengthening Family Values: Meeting Highlights and Future Plans

On June 1st, 2024, the members of the Diocesan Family Commission convened a meeting with the new Bishop for the first time at DPC Hall, Puneet Sadan, starting at 10:30 am. Brother Joji Velamarthy presented a brief report of the activities conducted by the Diocesan Family Commission during the previous year (2023-24), while Father Sachin D’souza presented the plan for the upcoming year. The plan for 2024-25 includes:

Conducting Marriage Preparation courses from September to March.

Hosting Marriage Enrichment programs in June and July for the various deaneries within our Diocese.

Implementing Training of Trainers (TOT) with the assistance of certified resource persons.

Establishing Family cells throughout the Diocese.

Introducing Moral Education initiatives in schools.


The Bishop expressed enthusiasm for the Family Commission’s plan for the upcoming year but also provided additional guidelines: 


Establishing teams at the deanery level to support the Family Commission.


Bringing experienced resource persons from outside the Diocese to initiate Family cells in all parishes within a period of 2 or 3 years.


Initiating Remote, Proximate, and Immediate Marriage Preparation courses.


Promoting the celebration of marriage jubilees and anniversaries in the parishes.


Promoting the celebration of grandparents’ and parents’ day in the parishes.


Identifying talented individuals with leadership qualities from the deaneries to assist the Family Commission.


Promoting the Missionary Families of Christ within the Diocese.


Forming a trained resource team to assist the Family Commission (TOT).


In conclusion, the Family Commission meeting was highly insightful. Key issues were successfully addressed, and valuable perspectives were shared. The collaborative spirit and open communication displayed by all participants were commendable.

Inaugural Mass of the Holy Cross Seminary, Shirwad

Inaugural Mass of the Holy Cross Seminary, Shirwad

On June 4th, 2024, the Inaugural Mass of the Holy Spirit for the seminarians of the Diocesan Minor Seminary was celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, at the Seminary Chapel in Shirwad at 6:30 pm. presently, the Minor Seminary hosts 22 seminarians, including 7 newcomers.

At the beginning of the Mass, the Bishop welcomed everyone, particularly the newcomers, and expressed his gratitude to the parents and the parish priests who have encouraged them to join the seminary. He also invited all present to pray for them in a special way during the Mass.

The celebration of the Eucharist was solemn and accompanied by a melodious choir led by the seminarians. The Formators, staff, and priests from the Bishop’s house were present for this celebration. During his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit in embarking on a new journey in life and persevering until the next stage.

The seminarians were deeply moved by the celebration of the Eucharist and expressed their gratitude to God, the Bishop, and the priests. Following the Mass, a sumptuous dinner was arranged for all at the Seminary refectory. After dinner, the Rector of the Seminary, Fr. John Rodrigues, thanked the Bishop and the priests for celebrating the Mass. He also expressed gratitude to the seminarians and the kitchen staff for their assistance in organizing the Mass and the supper.

Filled with new life and zeal from this experience, the staff and students are committed to continuing their mission and formation to the best of their ability.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Embracing the Call: Three Brothers Ordained to the Diaconate.

Embracing the Call: Three Brothers Ordained to the Diaconate.

Diocese of Karwar: On the 22nd of May, 2024, the Holy Cross Church in Shirwad witnessed a significant and joyous occasion as three brothers, Anil Rodrigues, Francis Fernandes, and Milton Souza, were ordained to the diaconate by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. This sacred event was a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of these young men to their calling.

Deacon Anil Rodrigues, hailing from Karikurva-Hosad, embarked on his spiritual journey at the diocesan minor seminary. He pursued his philosophical and theological studies at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary in Bangalore. Completing his pre-diaconate ministry at Holy Cross Church in Shirali, Anil’s commitment and devotion were evident to all who knew him. His proud parents, Mr. Leo Rodrigues and Mrs. Mary Rodrigues, were present to witness this milestone in their son’s life.

Deacon Francis Fernandes comes from the serene town of Gokarna. Like his fellow deacons, he began his formation in the diocesan minor seminary and continued his philosophical and theological education at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore. Francis’ journey has been one of deep faith and service, supported by the love and prayers of his family and community. He is proud son of Mr. Larence Fernandes and Mrs. Santan Fernandes.

Deacon Milton Souza, the son of Mr. Everest Souza and Mrs. Fatima Souza from Gerusoppa-Allanki, followed a path of dedication and spiritual growth. After his initial formation in the minor seminary, he pursued his major seminary studies at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Jeppu, Mangalore. Before his ordination, Milton completed his pre-diaconate ministry at the diocesan farm in Chipgi, Sirsi, exemplifying his commitment to serving the Church and its people.

The ordination ceremony, meticulously organized, was attended by huge number of priests, religious, family members, relatives, and friends of the candidates. It was an inspiring celebration of the richness of God’s call. Bishop Duming, in his homily, emphasized the importance of God’s call, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the essence of service in the diaconate. He expressed profound gratitude to the parents of the new deacons for their sacrifice and dedication to the Diocese of Karwar.


Following the Mass, a short felicitation program was held, honoring the newly ordained deacons. The celebration concluded with a sumptuous meal, bringing together the community in a spirit of joy and fellowship.
This ordination marks a significant chapter in the lives of Deacon Anil, Deacon Francis, and Deacon Milton, as they begin their service to the Church. Their journey is a shining example of faith and dedication, inspiring all who were present at this blessed event.

Warmest congratulations to Deacons Anil Rodrigues, Francis Fernandes, and Milton Souza on your ordination to the diaconate. May the Holy Spirit guide and inspire you as you embark on this sacred journey of service and devotion. May you be blessed with wisdom, strength, and compassion as you serve the Church and its people. 

Night Vigil Marks the Feast of Pentecost at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Karwar

Night Vigil Marks the Feast of Pentecost at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Karwar

In a solemn and spiritually uplifting event, the Diocese of Karwar celebrated the Feast of Pentecost with a night vigil at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral. Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the Bishop of Karwar, had called upon the Diocesan Service Communion to organize this special vigil, which took place from 9:00 PM on May 18th to 5:00 AM on May 19th, 2024.


The event began with the recitation of the Rosary, setting a contemplative tone for the evening. This was followed by sessions of praise and worship that filled the cathedral with an atmosphere of reverence and joy. Throughout the night, various talks were delivered, focusing on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of forgiveness. These talks provided deep spiritual insights and were a source of inspiration for all attendees. 

The vigil also included the recitation of Psalms, repeated sessions of praise and worship, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These elements combined to create a comprehensive and enriching spiritual experience, allowing the faithful to connect deeply with their faith.


As dawn approached, the night vigil culminated in a Holy Spirit outpouring Mass, celebrated by Bishop Dr. Duming Dias and concelebrated by attending priests. This Mass was a powerful conclusion to the vigil, leaving a lasting impact on all participants. 

A sizable number of faithful, including religious and seminarians, attended the vigil, reflecting the strong communal spirit of the diocese. The rector of the cathedral, Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all organizers and participants for their dedication and effort in making the event a success.
The night vigil for the Feast of Pentecost at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral was truly a unique and grace-filled experience, fostering a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit and strengthening the bonds within the diocesan community.

By,
Fr. Salvador Rodrigues
PRO: Diocese of Karwar 

“New Shepherd, New Hope” Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias

"New Shepherd, New Hope” Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias

Bishop Duming Dias Installed as the 3rd Bishop of the Diocese of Karwar.

In a solemn and deeply spiritual ceremony, the Diocese of Karwar witnessed the ceremony of consecration and solemn installation of its 3rd Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, on the 9th of April 2024. The historic event took place at 9 am at the sprawling grounds of St. Joseph’s School, Kajubhag, Karwar, amidst a gathering of devout faithful, clergy, and distinguished guests from all over Karnataka.

The consecration ceremony, a momentous occasion in the life of the Church, was graced by the presence of His Eminence Cardinal Philip Neri Ferrão of Goa, along with 14 other bishops. A sight to behold, the ceremony drew a crowd of 400 priests, 300 religious nuns, and approximately 8000 faithful, who gathered to pray for and welcome their new shepherd.

Following the sacred rites of consecration, the venue was transformed into a place of jubilation as the faithful, clergy, and dignitaries joined in a felicitation program. Bishop Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, and Bishop Francis Serrao, Bishop of Shivamogga, expressed their heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Duming Dias on behalf of all the bishops present.

Notably, outgoing Bishop Derek Fernandes, who served the Diocese of Karwar as it’s bishop for 12 years, and as an apostolic administrator for 5 years extended his warm wishes and gratitude to Bishop Dias, expressing sentiments of unity and continuity in the diocesan leadership.

Amidst accolades from various dignitaries and well-wishers, Bishop Duming Dias took the podium to address the gathering and the people of Karwar in his maiden speech as the new bishop. With humility and conviction, he revealed his chosen theme, drawn from the Bible verse, “At your word, Lord.” 

“In accepting the call to shepherd the Diocese of Karwar, I have anchored my service upon the profound trust in God’s word,” declared Bishop Dias. “I shall lead the flock entruatwd ro me, trusting in the providence of God, striving to do His will and I will guide His flock with unwavering faith and dedication.”

The atmosphere resonated with hope, faith, and unity as Bishop Dias articulated his vision for the diocese, promising to uphold the teachings of Christ and serve the people of Karwar with compassion, wisdom, and humility.

As the Diocese of Karwar embarks on a new chapter under the leadership of Bishop Duming Dias, the faithful stand united in prayer, eagerly waiting for the fruits of his pastoral ministry and the blessings that lie ahead.

Fr. Salvador Rodrigues
PRO: Diocese of Karwar

CHRISM MASS 2024

The Catholic Diocese of Karwar celebrated the Chrism Mass today, March 21, 2024, at Our Lady of Assumption Church in Kajubag, Karwar. The Chrism Mass is a significant event in the life of the diocese, where the bishop and priests from all corners of the diocese come together to concelebrate Mass.

This ceremony, which symbolizes and renews the unity of the priests with their bishop, involves the consecration of Holy Oils by the bishop. These oils will be used during Easter next week and throughout the year. Thus, it is like a preparation that inaugurates the festivity of Easter, which in turn begins a new liturgical period for the Christians – a period that reminds the Christians of the closeness of God to them in their sufferings, their endeavours and the liturgical moments.

CHRISM MASS 2024

CHRISM MASS 2024

The Catholic Diocese of Karwar celebrated the Chrism Mass today, March 21, 2024, at Our Lady of Assumption Church in Kajubag, Karwar. The Chrism Mass is a significant event in the life of the diocese, where the bishop and priests from all corners of the diocese come together to concelebrate Mass.


This ceremony, which symbolizes and renews the unity of the priests with their bishop, involves the consecration of Holy Oils by the bishop. These oils will be used during Easter next week and throughout the year. Thus, it is like a preparation that inaugurates the festivity of Easter, which in turn begins a new liturgical period for the Christians – a period that reminds the Christians of the closeness of God to them in their sufferings, their endeavours and the liturgical moments.

In the olden days, Oil was used as a symbol of strength and healing. Catholic Tradition, believes in the fact that God takes these things, such as oil, from the human and natural realm and gives it a new meaning – in this case spiritual strength and spiritual healing. These elements, through which God acts in the Christian liturgies, have nourished and strengthened the Christian communities for over two thousand years, assuring them of the presence and action of God in their life and history both in good times and in times of adversity.


This was the last Chrism Mass celebrated by Bishop Derek Fernandes, as the diocese of Karwar will now have a new Bishop, Bishop-elect Duming Dias, who will be consecrated Bishop on 9 April 2024. Thus, at his outset, Bishop Fernandes drew attention to the unity and collaboration he enjoyed with the priests and the people of Karwar appreciating the quality of the priests in Karwar. Bishop Fernandes served the Diocese of Karwar for 17 years.

Fr. Simon Tellis, a close collaborator of Bishop Fernandes, expressed his appreciation for the work done by the outgoing bishop. He mentioned how he could be easily approached by all, how he has been close to the people, especially during difficult times, and how he has been a great administrator who continued the legacy of the first bishop of Karwar, Bishop William D’Mello. Reminiscing the qualities of Bishop Fernandes as a good Shepherd Fr. Simon Tellis wished him all the best in all his endeavours.

Divine Elevation: Father Rohan Gonsalves’ Ordination and Chronicles of Life

Divine Elevation: Father Rohan Gonsalves’ Ordination and Chronicles of Life

In a momentous ceremony held today at St. Sebastian’s Church in Upper-Kasarkod, the reverberations of spiritual significance filled the air as Father Rohan Gonsalves was ordained into the priesthood.


Born to Thomas and Mary Gonsalves, Father Rohan is among five siblings – Roshan, Briton, Rayan, and Roycee. His educational odyssey commenced in Upper Kasarkod, where Mazarello Convent and Janatha Vidyalaya Honnavar were foundational to his primary and high school education.

Answering the call to become a diocesan priest after completing his SSLC, Father Rohan enrolled in the Holy Cross Seminary in Shirwad. His academic journey continued at St. Joseph’s College Karwar, culminating in the successful completion of his PUC studies. 
Furthering his studies at St. Salvador Church Honnavar for minor seminary studies, Father Rohan pursued a BCOM degree at SDM College. Under the mentorship of Bishop Derek Fernandes, he advanced to St. Joseph’s Seminary for rigorous major seminary studies, encompassing three years of philosophy, four years of theology, and a transformative year of regency at Joida.
Joida became the crucible of his pre-diaconate ministry, shaping his spiritual path. Ordained as a deacon on June 22, 2023, Father Rohan’s diaconate unfolded at St. Joseph’s Church Shirwad.

Today, on February 12, 2024, Bishop Derek Fernandes bestowed the sacred ordination of Father Rohan Gonsalves, marking the culmination of years of preparation and devotion.
Beyond his academic and spiritual pursuits, Father Rohan is a polymath, proficient in over 10 musical instruments, excelling in chess and sports, and achieving recognition in inter-state and state-level Bible quizzes. His attributes of obedience, love, and empathy further define his character.
The Diocese extends heartfelt wishes to Father Rohan, envisioning a priesthood journey marked by success, perpetual companionship with Jesus, and unwavering dedication in serving God’s people.